Military to practice air intercepts over Phoenix

PHOENIX — Fighter jets controlled by the North American Aerospace Defense
Command plan on intercepting planes posing as possible threats over Phoenix.

Tuesday morning’s exercises are part of regular tests of NORAD’s ability to
respond to airborne threats that have been in place since the Sept. 11, 2001
terrorist attacks.

The fighters will be intercepting other aircraft standing in as possible
threats between 10 a.m. and noon and people may see or hear them as they fly
above metropolitan Phoenix. The flights could be delayed or canceled
if bad weather develops.

NORAD provides aerospace warning and control for Canada and U.S. and involves
both American and Canadian military commanders.